California Official Visitor's Guide 2009 - UK - (Page 16) catalina’s charms Find out what makes Southern California’s island getaway simply irresistible Kayak launch Low-key dining Avalon waterfront W ith its exotic island setting, sweeping ocean views and almost unlimited activities, it’s easy to see why Catalina Island has beguiled visitors for generations. Take an express sea shuttle 22mi/35km across the sparkling Pacific, and then relax in the town of Avalon, a hamlet rich in moviestar history and romance. From there, it’s your choice on how you want to play— or not. It’s also perfectly fine to simply stretch out and wiggle your toes in the warm sand. Exploring the island High-speed vessels depart daily from Long Beach, Dana Point and San Pedro; check Catalina Express schedules at www.catalinaexpress.com. To get to Catalina by helicopter, contact Island Express, www.islandexpress.com. Cycling is a great way to get around the 76 sq mi. of Catalina. Nearly 90 percent of 16 the island is now protected by the Santa Catalina Island Conservancy, with preserved lands open to hiking and biking. Try Brown’s Bikes (www.catalinabiking.com) for mountain bikes; ask for maps and details on daily permits (required) to access the island’s back roads and trails. To explore the back country without working up a sweat, take a guided Jeep tour to see Catalina’s bald eagles and imported herd of American bison. Check out Jeep Eco-Tours for details, www.catalinaconservancy.org. Catalina’s aquatic environment also offers opportunities for having fun— and for learning. Experience a watery world during a semi-submersible tour of Avalon Bay. Catalina Express voyages are offered by Discovery Tours, www.catalinaisland.com. For another fun way to get around Catalina, consider hiring a London cab limo through Catalina Transportation Services (www.catalinatransportationservices.com). Classy dining and lodging The Avalon Hotel (www.theavalonhotel.com) lets you relax in spacious, craftsmaninspired interiors; the ocean view from the rooftop is not to be missed. For a central location in the heart of town, try the luxurious Hotel Vista Del Mar (www.hotel-vistadelmar.com). Fresh seafood is the obvious choice when you’re on an island. Try Armstrong’s Fish Market & Seafood Restaurant on Crescent Avenue for patio dining overlooking the bay. Dial up the romance at Ristorante Villa Portofino, also on Crescent Avenue, with soft candlelight, warm Tuscan decor and delicious Italian specialties. For more information and fun ways to play, go to www.visitlongbeach.com and type “Catalina” as the subject in the search line. www.visitcalifornia.co.uk JEN JuDgE (3) http://www.catalinatransportationservices.com http://www.catalinabiking.com http://www.theavalonhotel.com http://www.hotel-vistadelmar.com http://www.catalinaconservancy.org http://www.catalinaexpress.com http://www.catalinaisland.com http://www.islandexpress.com http://www.visitlongbeach.com http://www.visitcalifornia.co.uk
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